The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings for a severe cold front sweeping across the country this weekend, bringing freezing temperatures, heavy rain, strong winds, and potential snowfall. From Saturday, June 7, through the following week, South Africans should prepare for disruptive weather, particularly in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and high-altitude regions. Here’s a detailed forecast to help you plan.
Weekend Forecast: Cold, Wet, and Windy
Saturday: Cold Front Hits Hard
Starting late Friday, a powerful cold front will make landfall, bringing widespread rain and gusty winds. The Western Cape is expected to see scattered showers, with temperatures dropping significantly. Johannesburg and Pretoria will experience partly cloudy skies with highs of 19°C and 21°C, respectively, but windy conditions will make it feel colder. SAWS warns of difficult driving conditions due to flooded roads and reduced visibility, particularly along coastal routes.
Sunday: Snowfall and Storms Intensify
By Sunday, the cold front deepens, with isolated thunderstorms forecast for the central and western interior. Snow is possible in high-lying areas of the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, sparing only Limpopo. SAWS highlights risks of localized flooding and disruptions to essential services. Coastal areas, especially the southeast, will face rough seas, posing challenges for navigation. Residents in Tshwane are warned of a “significant drop in the mercury,” with lows nearing 0°C in some areas.
Also Read: Cold Front Weather Forecast with Snow Expected in Gauteng
Next Week: Prolonged Cold and Storms
Monday and Tuesday: Bitter Cold Persists
The cold snap continues into Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures in Johannesburg dipping to 0°C and Pretoria to 1°C. Widespread showers are expected across the Western Cape and southeast coast, while inland regions like Gauteng may see partly cloudy skies with isolated showers. SAWS notes that very cold, wet, and windy conditions could lead to livestock losses and agricultural damage, urging farmers to take precautions.
Midweek Outlook: Gradual Easing
By midweek, the intensity of the cold front may ease slightly, but chilly conditions will linger. The Western Cape and Eastern Cape could still see scattered showers, while Gauteng and the North West may warm slightly to the mid-teens. However, SAWS warns of potential severe thunderstorms in the central interior, which could bring hail and localized flooding. Motorists and residents are advised to stay updated via SAWS alerts.
Safety Tips and Precautions
SAWS emphasizes the importance of staying weather-smart. Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain, secure outdoor items against strong winds, and keep warm to prevent hypothermia, especially in rural areas. Coastal communities should heed warnings about rough seas and storm surges. For the latest updates, check SAWS’s official channels or local news outlets.
This extreme weather event underscores the need for preparedness as South Africa navigates a turbulent winter season. Stay safe and warm!
Sources:
- South African Weather Service: Website
- The Citizen: Weather forecast – 7 June 2025
- News24: Brace Yourself: South African Weather Services issues warning on cold front this weekend
- IOL: Weekend weather wrap: Rain, snow and everything you need to know
- BusinessTech: Severe storm warning for South Africa
- EWN: SA Weather Service Warns Tshwane of a Significant Drop in the Mercury
- eNCA: Bitter cold grips SA till midweek